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Europe is a very safe country when it comes to violent crimes, however theft is an unfortunate reality for travelers. Thieves tend to target American tourists when it comes to pickpocketing and purse snatching. However, most of these instances are avoidable if you follow these tips:

Don’t bring along your valuables. You’ve heard it before, but leave your valuables at home when traveling. If you bring expensive equipment with you on vacation, like a laptop, keep them in a hotel safe when you’re out for the day.

Don’t carry a backpack. Thieves can easily unzip or even worse, cut the bottom your backpack without your knowledge on a crowded metro. Instead, carry a cross-body bag underneath your jacket or wear a money belt. If you must carry a backpack, wear it on the front of your body. You may look silly, but it will keep thieves from unzipping your backpack without your knowledge.

Blend in. Avoid wearing anything that screams, “I’m a tourist!”. This includes your newly purchased “I love London” t-shirt, white athletic shoes and baseball caps. These items will most likely attract thieves as they are known to target Americans.

Stay alert. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowds. Most thieves use a distraction or create commotion of some kind in order to distract you. If you stay vigilant and trust your instincts, it can save you from being a victim of theft.

Get travel insurance. Sometimes theft is unavoidable. If your items are stolen, travel insurance can provide protection where your homeowner’s policy falls short. To find the plan that’s right for you, visit travelsafe.com or call us at 888-885-7233.

What your best tips are for staying safe while abroad? Leave your tips in a comment below, write on our Facebook wall or Tweet us. We look forward to hearing from you!